Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Images by Ryan McGill
Jill Tubbs is celebrating 30 years with Walker County E911.
Reflecting on her journey, Jill shares what initially drew her to a career she has cherished for so long.
“When I was younger, it was hard to get a county job, especially one with a pension, and that was my goal. When I saw this job advertised in the paper, I immediately applied for it. And though I didn’t get it the first time, I tried again the next time they were hiring,” she recalls.
Jill began her E911 career part-time, gradually acclimating to the job’s environment and responsibilities.
During this time, she also worked as a jailer at the Juvenile Detention Center, a role that required her to be on call and only come in when the jail was receiving or housing occupants.
As her responsibilities at E911 increased, Jill’s days became more demanding.
Her routine involved fulfilling her duties as a jailer, clocking out, and then heading across the street to clock in for a late-night shift with E911.
She maintained this rigorous schedule for four and a half years, often working seven days a week, but Jill embraced the challenge.
“I didn’t have a problem keeping up with where I needed to be because it was routine, and I had a schedule in front of me. And sleep wasn’t an issue; I had no problem staying up late,” she says.
Eventually, Jill transitioned to full-time work at E911, where she has since built a remarkable 30-year career. Although her schedule has stabilized, her work remains just as fast-paced.
Over the years, responding to countless calls has honed Jill’s training and readiness in emergencies. Yet, the ever-changing nature of the situations she encounters keeps her on her toes, continuously shifting her perspective of the world.
“People always say that I’ve probably heard it all, but I get new situations every week. And this job is never easy; it takes a lot of determination. But, after 30 years, my training is so built into me that I know what I have to do when a situation comes along, even if it is difficult,” Jill explains. “But, when I come to work, I’m going to have a good day because I walk in with a positive attitude. I enjoy going to work, I enjoy the people I work with, and I enjoy helping people who need it. That’s how I’ve been able to do it for thirty years.”
The Walker Leader congratulates Jill Tubbs on this incredible milestone! WL
